Abstract:This paper investigates the linear response of an archetypal energy harvester that uses electromagnetic induction to convert ambient vibration into electrical energy. in contrast with most prior works, the influence of the circuit inductance is not assumed negligible. Instead, we highlight parameter regimes where the inductance can alter resonance and derive an expression for the resonant frequency. The governing equations consider the case of a vibratory generator directly powering a resistive load. These equations are non-dimensionalized and analytical solutions are obtained for the system's response to single harmonic, periodic, and stochastic environmental excitations. The presented analytical solutions are then used to study the power delivered to an electrical load. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.